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Maryland Governor Backs 'Second Chance Act'

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Gov. Larry Hogan is supporting a measure to allow people with certain nonviolent misdemeanor criminal records to have those records blocked from public view after three years.

Hogan, a Republican, announced his support for the bill Thursday.

The governor says a criminal record can be an insurmountable barrier to people seeking employment. Hogan says he believes in second chances. He also says the measure would contribute to the economic growth and development of the state.

The measure applies to people who have served their sentences, including probation and parole, and who have maintained clean records.

The bill passed the Senate on a 46-0 vote last week. A similar bill is pending in the House.

(Copyright 2015 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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